Perfluorochemicals in Minnesota

Introduction
Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) are a family of manmade chemicals that have been used for decades to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water. Common uses include nonstick cookware, stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, as components of fire-fighting foam, and other industrial applications. PFCs have been found in the groundwater in southern Washington County and northern Dakota County.

PFCs are “emerging contaminants.” This term describes contaminants about which we have a new awareness or understanding about how they move in the environment or affect public health. PFCs, like other emerging contaminants, are the focus of active research and study which means that new information is released periodically. See the links below for more information about PFCs.

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Topics:
Perfluorochemicals and Health: Links to Topics
Topics include:

• general information on PFCs and Health
• health based exposure limits for PFOA, PFOS and PFBA
• toxicological studies
• guidelines for fish consumption
• PFCs biomonitoring pilot program information

• maps
• a summary of well sampling activities
• a public health report on PFC contamination in Lake Elmo and Oakdale that includes conclusions and recommendations to protect public health

• a water treatment device study report
• carbon filters
• water testing for PFCs that is available for cost to citizens

• other reports
• the biomonitoring project
• information from PFC-related workshops
• other state and federal agencies

For more information about this page, please contact us at health.hazard@state.mn.us call 651-201-4897, or toll-free 1-800-657-3908 and press "4" to leave a message.